London, Aug 2 (NationPress) Former Indian pacer Varun Aaron emphasizes that the batting style of captain Shubman Gill will be pivotal for their second innings after concluding the day with a score of 75 for 2 and a modest lead of 52 runs.

Yashasvi Jaiswal's impressive half-century was crucial for India's resurgence after the home side managed to dismiss KL Rahul and Sai Sudharsan cheaply.

“I doubt Gill will attempt any risky singles, that’s certain. However, I hope he continues to play as he has throughout this series. He has already shattered numerous records and may even exceed Sunil Gavaskar’s tally during this series. If he scores big tomorrow, India could aim for a lead exceeding 300, which would significantly shift the game's momentum. The focus will be on how Gill performs, and I believe he understands his crucial role in India’s strategy,” Aaron stated on JioHotstar.

“India is in a strong position. The wicket of Sai Sudharsan could have been avoided, but it was a remarkable delivery; there wasn’t much he could have done. For me, the highlight of the day was the bowling performance of Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. They bowled with tremendous heart. Even Akash Deep played a solid supporting role. England began aggressively in the morning, nearly causing a shock, but the Indian bowlers remained composed. Shubman Gill, as captain, kept his cool, didn’t go defensive too soon, and ensured England’s lead didn’t surpass 30, which was vital. Jaiswal’s innings appeared risky at times, and he had a few close calls, but his aggressive intent was essential. We have seen India struggle with run rates in this series — someone had to keep the scoreboard moving. India now finds itself 50 runs ahead, which is a favorable position.

Earlier on day two, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna claimed four wickets each, dismissing England for 247/10 after being at 92/1. Aaron praised the duo's performance for turning the match around.

“I always believed Siraj would bounce back and take wickets - that's been his journey this series. He may not have the best initial spells and tends to concede runs, but that's because he is always on the hunt for wickets. Bowlers like him are essential. Today, he effectively utilized his wobble seam - his most potent weapon. Once he trusted that and used the outswinger sparingly, he was at his best. The ball that swung back in and trapped the left-hander LBW was classic Siraj. You can call him a lionheart or an energizer bunny; he brings relentless energy and consistently delivers.”

“This was truly Prasidh’s day. He really rose to the occasion, especially after Siraj had just bowled an eight-over spell and Akash Deep had put in a long shift. Prasidh’s breakthroughs were crucial. Had he not succeeded, we would have had to rely on spin, and a player like Harry Brook could have capitalized on that. Thanks to Prasidh, the bowlers didn’t have to overexert themselves, and now they are fresh and brimming with confidence heading into the next innings,” the former Indian pacer concluded.